SIN | TAEKOOK ✓

twelve.

It had been about a week since Taehyung heard Jimin in the bathroom. The boy had come out as soon as Taehyung called his name.

He kept insisting that he was fine, but his bloodshot eyes told a different story.

Nonetheless, Taehyung didn't comment further, instead tried to keep a close eye on his friend.

It was another Friday morning when Jimin practically ran up to Taehyung at school, happy as ever.

"Tae! Okay so you know my friend Yoongi?"

"Yes?" He asked, confused as he clutched one of his textbook close to his chest.

"Well he and some other guys are doing like this annual car race later today. Wanna come?" Jimin asked with puppy eyes.

"I don't know-" Taehyung began before Jimin cut him off.

"Jungkook will be there."

Taehyung couldn't help the pink dust that covered his cheeks.

"M-My father won't allow it." He spoke softly, feeling disappointed.

"Who said he had to find out?" Jimin smiled mischievously.

"Jimin, I can't lie to him." Taehyung bit his lip nervously, feeling awful for actually contemplating it.

"You don't have to speak. I'll do the talking." Jimin smiled before rushing to class, leaving Taehyung standing alone.

-

After much convincing, Taehyung's father agreed to let him go to "church for extra choir practice".

Jimin could be very convincing, while Taehyung stood behind his friend, feeling bad for lying to his father.

It was past five when they finally made it across town. 

Taehyung stayed close to Jimin the entire way, still feeling a bit skeptical.

Jimin suddenly turned down a street and that was when he heard the loud cheering and music playing.

It sort of looked like a block party, with teenagers everywhere, cans of beer in their hands.

Taehyung's eyes widened lightly when he realized that this car race was most likely illegal.

Well of course it was, they were in the middle of the street.

"Come on! Yoongi's right there!" Jimin yelled over the crowd, dragging Taehyung along with him.

The boy didn't protest, following Jimin while his eyes wandering around.

He couldn't help but feel out of place, seeing the teens dressed in very little clothing with cigarette smoke heavy in the air.

"Yoongi!" Jimin yelled, making Yoongi turn around.

Taehyung couldn't help but notice the small curl of the boy's lips at Jimin's voice.

His face otherwise remained emotionless, even when Jimin tugged at the sleeve of his jacket.

"Hey." Was all Yoongi said.

"I brought Taehyung with me." Taehyung smiled at Yoongi, feeling happy when the boy nodded at him lightly.

At least he wasn't glaring at him anymore.

"You should go stand by the sidelines; we are about to start." Yoongi told Jimin, making the boy nod quickly.

"Okay! Good luck!" Jimin spoke happily, leaning forward towards Yoongi before the latter coughed.

Jimin quickly retreated, glancing at Taehyung who watched the awkward interaction.

"C-Come on Tae." Jimin took one last look at Yoongi before leading Taehyung towards the finish line mark.

The cars that were going to be used for the street race were already lined up and in place. 

Taehyung watched with curious eyes as Yoongi and another male stepped onto the street and climbed into their respected cars.

Apparently, there was going to be three rounds and Yoongi was up first.

Once they lowered the flag, the two cars were off, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

Taehyung was startled by their sudden cheering, Jimin jumping up and down from beside him.

The loud sound of the cars taking off was loud in his ears, making him wince lightly.

Once the cars were nearing the finish line, Yoongi managed to get the upper hand and cross the finish line first.

From beside him Jimin yelled loudly, clapping happily.

The crowd erupted into cheers, beer spilling out of their cups and landing by Taehyung's feet.

When Yoongi finally exited the car, Jimin didn't hesitate to run up to him.

Taehyung watched from the sidelines as Jimin hugged Yoongi, making the people around him whistle loudly.

Taehyung furrowed his brows, wondering why they did that. 

A short while later Jimin ran back to him with Yoongi by his side.

"Let's go with Yoongi. There's a better view on the other side." Jimin latched onto Yoongi's arm, grabbing Taehyung with his other hand.

Taehyung obediently followed along, avoiding eye contact with the drunken people around him.

They finally made it to the other side, where all the racers were standing.

Taehyung glanced around before he caught sight of a familiar raven-haired male.

"Jungkook's going in the last round." Jimin spoke in his ear, already knowing Taehyung had been looking at him.

The small boy blushed, embarrassed at having been caught.

It wasn't long before the male looked around, eyes pausing when he caught sight of Taehyung.

The second round had already started, the crowd cheered loudly in the background.

But Jungkook was focused on Taehyung. The way the wind blew his hair, wanting nothing more than to brush the soft strands out of his eyes.

Before he got the chance to walk over, one of the guys called him, "We lost the second round. Get ready, it's on you." 

Jungkook cursed loudly, feeling his competitiveness rise at the realization that all eyes would be on him.

He angrily stepped into the car, slamming the door shut and waiting for the signal.

He could feel Taehyung staring at him from the side, making his eyes darken.

He could feel the pressure building in his chest, now knowing that Taehyung was watching.

When the woman finally gave the signal, he was off. He was solemnly focused on the road, paying no mind to the loud screams behind him.

He could feel the other car hot on his heels as his adrenaline pumped.

He tightened his jaw as he pressed his foot down, zooming down the street.

He thought of Taehyung. Of how painfully beautiful he was.

Of how pretty he looked that day, standing shyly by Jimin's side. His eyes a warm brown color, and his cheeks a flattering pink.

Of the small mole on his nose and the way his eyes twinkled when he spoke about things he loved.

He didn't even realize the moment he passed the finish line, breathing heavily.

He glanced around, watching as the opposing car finally passed him. 

He had won.